Griffiths said passenger disruption would be kept to a minimum

Dubai Airports has confirmed that all systems are go for a comprehensive runway upgrade project set to be launched at Dubai International on May 1st, 2014 to boost safety, service and capacity levels.

The upgrade work will last 80 days during which the runways will be closed alternatively – the southern runway from May 1st to May 31st, and the northern runway from May 31st to July 20th, 2014.

The project involves the resurfacing of the entire 4,000-metre long northern runway, which is nearing the end of its design life, as well as the upgrading of runway lighting and construction of additional taxiways and rapid exits on the southern runway.

During this period the number of flights at Dubai International will be reduced by 26 per cent while flight movements at Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC) are set to increase dramatically as eight airlines that currently operate into Dubai International have reserved slots to operate into Dubai’s second airport during the 80-day period.

More than 300 flights a week are expected to depart from Dubai’s second airport during this period.

Paul Griffiths, Dubai Airports chief executive said: “We have planned this project to optimise capacity while protecting service levels and, in conjunction with Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects, airlines and other stakeholders, have deployed all the resources necessary to make it as smooth and seamless as possible.

“While we regret any inconvenience caused to our airline customers and our passengers, these upgrades are necessary to heighten safety, boost capacity and pave the way for future expansion,” Griffiths added.